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Lost and starving, Finn wakes to a poisoned world, but a man comes to him, a white light in the darkness---can a centuries old pooka find what he needs with a heartbroken, modern man?
When Diego rescues a naked man from the rail of the Brooklyn Bridge, he just wants to get the poor man out of traffic and to social services. He gets more than he bargained for when he discovers Finn is an ailing pooka, poisoned by the city's pollution. To help him recover, Diego takes him to New Brunswick where Finn inadvertently wakes an ancient, evil spirit: the wendigo.
While they struggle to find a way to destroy the wendigo before it can possess Diego or kill nearby innocents, Diego wrestles with his growing feelings for Finn. Kill the monster and navigate a relationship between a modern man and a centuries old pooka. Piece of cake.
When Diego rescues a naked man from the rail of the Brooklyn Bridge, he just wants to get the poor man out of traffic and to social services. He gets more than he bargained for when he discovers Finn is an ailing pooka, poisoned by the city's pollution. To help him recover, Diego takes him to New Brunswick where Finn inadvertently wakes an ancient, evil spirit: the wendigo.
While they struggle to find a way to destroy the wendigo before it can possess Diego or kill nearby innocents, Diego wrestles with his growing feelings for Finn. Kill the monster and navigate a relationship between a modern man and a centuries old pooka. Piece of cake.
205 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 2, 2009
76 people are currently reading
797 people want to read
About the author
Angel Martinez
93 books677 followersAngel Martinez currently lives part time in the hectic sprawl of northern Delaware and full time inside her head. She has one husband, one son, two cats, a love of all things beautiful and a terrible addiction to the consumption of both knowledge and chocolate.
Angel's alter ego writes the all-ages science fiction - Sandra Stixrude.
Angel's alter ego writes the all-ages science fiction - Sandra Stixrude.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
June 4, 2018
I love Angel Martinez, and I've read mostly everything she's written, but this book, while pleasant, wasn't my favorite from her.
Finn was a fun read (I'm always down for a hottie fae) with a nicely plotted, fast pace. I've never read a book with a pooka MC before, but I was totally down with the magic and charm of the story.
Three-star reviews are some of the hardest for me to write because while I enjoyed the story, I don't feel super-strongly about it, either way. There were dark parts and some funny parts, but overall, the sappiness and cheesy pet names brought me back from really enjoyed the story. I found the jump to love to be way too fast for my personal tastes as well. It read like a novella, though it clocked in over 200 pages long.
I think if you like Angel Martinez, the story is certainly worth your while. It was a nice break from some heavier reads for me, though I don't think it will stand out a few weeks from now.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
Finn was a fun read (I'm always down for a hottie fae) with a nicely plotted, fast pace. I've never read a book with a pooka MC before, but I was totally down with the magic and charm of the story.
Three-star reviews are some of the hardest for me to write because while I enjoyed the story, I don't feel super-strongly about it, either way. There were dark parts and some funny parts, but overall, the sappiness and cheesy pet names brought me back from really enjoyed the story. I found the jump to love to be way too fast for my personal tastes as well. It read like a novella, though it clocked in over 200 pages long.
I think if you like Angel Martinez, the story is certainly worth your while. It was a nice break from some heavier reads for me, though I don't think it will stand out a few weeks from now.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
May 24, 2011
Finn was just the story I needed to warm my heart and lift my spirits after being sick with bronchitis all week.
Diego is not terribly good at taking care of himself. His greatest satisfaction in life comes from helping others. When he finds a cold, sick and naked man on the Brooklyn Bridge, his caring and empathetic nature comes to life as he brings the man home and helps him recover.
It turns out this unusual man is an ancient Fae known as a Pooka, and recovery from his illness requires he spend some time away from the pollution and congestion of the big city.
As they head for the Canadian wilderness, Diego and Finn run into complications when a malevolent force is awakened.
I really enjoyed this enchanting fantasy infused with magic, Celtic folklore, music, art, humor, sensuality and emotion. Both men were strong and well-developed characters with baggage from past relationships and hurts. I loved the growth of their relationship, their great capacity for love, and their powerful magic that makes the world right again.
This story was an absolute joy to read from start to finish!
Diego is not terribly good at taking care of himself. His greatest satisfaction in life comes from helping others. When he finds a cold, sick and naked man on the Brooklyn Bridge, his caring and empathetic nature comes to life as he brings the man home and helps him recover.
It turns out this unusual man is an ancient Fae known as a Pooka, and recovery from his illness requires he spend some time away from the pollution and congestion of the big city.
As they head for the Canadian wilderness, Diego and Finn run into complications when a malevolent force is awakened.
I really enjoyed this enchanting fantasy infused with magic, Celtic folklore, music, art, humor, sensuality and emotion. Both men were strong and well-developed characters with baggage from past relationships and hurts. I loved the growth of their relationship, their great capacity for love, and their powerful magic that makes the world right again.
This story was an absolute joy to read from start to finish!
August 11, 2014
I'm hovering in the 3.5 to 4 Hearts range, so I'm just going to round up to 4.
A pooka!
I’d never heard of such a thing. Fairies, yes. Pookas, no. Can’t say that anymore. Finn set the bar high as far as pookas go. He’s a delight. He’s also a shapeshifting pooka who can shift into a DRAGON!!!!!!!!!!!!!
*squeals with delight*
Finn and Diego first meet on the Brooklyn Bridge. Diego believes Finn’s about to jump and Diego has a penchant for saving lost souls of all varieties. As a matter of fact, his relationship with Mitch has recently bit the dust because of Diego’s kindheartedness. Good riddance, I say. Mitch is a douche canoe. At any rate, Diego talks Finn into coming back to his apartment and begins trying to breach the defenses. Finn is wary, has a deep seeded mistrust of humans, but is growing weaker by the day and therefore desperate. As an aside, I appreciate very much the environmental message that pervades this story.
A series of events happen and Diego takes Miriam, his publisher, up on her offer to take up residence at her home near Fundy National Park in Canada. Let me tell you, some freaky shit happens in Canada. Some good, some bad, all freaky. Ok, maybe not all but a lot.
I enjoyed Finn quite a bit. It’s the opening of a series and the follow up is a must read as this one has an open ending. Both Diego and Finn have distinct voices, even if I was reading along and noticed there was no “Finn said” I knew it was him and vice versa. All the descriptions of all the animals’ thoughts were great fun. Finn kind of steals the show here, in my opinion, with his shenanigans and bluntness, though I do like both characters. They have sort of a star-crossed feel to them that I always a win for me, though I’m having trouble feeling there heat and intensity. Perhaps in Diego the intensity will get ratcheted up. Hopefully.
The characters of Tia Carmen and Miriam also put on quite a show in Finn. Let’s just say Miriam is a riot. I’d so have cocktails with her. I wish Tia Carmen would come over with enchiladas and stuffed poblanos. I’m willing to send my address. I make a mean margarita. I can even rustle up some prickly pears and send this thing to the next level. Just sayin’. The three of us could wreak some serious havoc.
It was the supernatural high jinks that kept me turning the pages and what will propel me to read Diego.
To all the pooka lovers out there, this series is for you!
Reviewed for
A pooka!
poo·ka
ˈpo͞okə/
noun
noun: pooka; plural noun: pookas
(in Irish mythology) a hobgoblin.
I’d never heard of such a thing. Fairies, yes. Pookas, no. Can’t say that anymore. Finn set the bar high as far as pookas go. He’s a delight. He’s also a shapeshifting pooka who can shift into a DRAGON!!!!!!!!!!!!!
*squeals with delight*
Finn and Diego first meet on the Brooklyn Bridge. Diego believes Finn’s about to jump and Diego has a penchant for saving lost souls of all varieties. As a matter of fact, his relationship with Mitch has recently bit the dust because of Diego’s kindheartedness. Good riddance, I say. Mitch is a douche canoe. At any rate, Diego talks Finn into coming back to his apartment and begins trying to breach the defenses. Finn is wary, has a deep seeded mistrust of humans, but is growing weaker by the day and therefore desperate. As an aside, I appreciate very much the environmental message that pervades this story.
A series of events happen and Diego takes Miriam, his publisher, up on her offer to take up residence at her home near Fundy National Park in Canada. Let me tell you, some freaky shit happens in Canada. Some good, some bad, all freaky. Ok, maybe not all but a lot.
I enjoyed Finn quite a bit. It’s the opening of a series and the follow up is a must read as this one has an open ending. Both Diego and Finn have distinct voices, even if I was reading along and noticed there was no “Finn said” I knew it was him and vice versa. All the descriptions of all the animals’ thoughts were great fun. Finn kind of steals the show here, in my opinion, with his shenanigans and bluntness, though I do like both characters. They have sort of a star-crossed feel to them that I always a win for me, though I’m having trouble feeling there heat and intensity. Perhaps in Diego the intensity will get ratcheted up. Hopefully.
The characters of Tia Carmen and Miriam also put on quite a show in Finn. Let’s just say Miriam is a riot. I’d so have cocktails with her. I wish Tia Carmen would come over with enchiladas and stuffed poblanos. I’m willing to send my address. I make a mean margarita. I can even rustle up some prickly pears and send this thing to the next level. Just sayin’. The three of us could wreak some serious havoc.
It was the supernatural high jinks that kept me turning the pages and what will propel me to read Diego.
To all the pooka lovers out there, this series is for you!
Reviewed for
March 4, 2012
Diego is a savior of all things stray. Even if one of his strays was able to hurt him, he just can't stop doing so. His heart is just too big -- which doesn't sit well with his lover, who ends up leaving him. Diego's latest save is a naked man, crouching on a rail of Brooklyn Bridge. Little that he knows, the man, Finn, is an endangered fae, a pooka. And he will fill Diego's heart with love.
I didn't bought the 1st edition due to Ms. Martinez's warning about the legal dispute. When this 2nd edition is released by SP, I didn't hesitate to purchase it. Awwww, what a sweet story this is!!!
Diego has this walking sadness around him; even if the strays and others can see his heart of gold, but the fact that his ex cannot, and how he can't seem to sell his book, does something hurtful to his soul. I'm just glad that he finds happiness in Finn.
Reading about Finn's interaction with modern world is adorable. From the magic of answering machine, to him trying to build a 'modern art', to his joy of being in the wilderness, when Diego brings him to a cabin in Canada (Finn cannot stand too much iron in the modern life) ... I just love it -- puts a smile to my face throughout.
The action when they fight the wendigo is great ... though there are times, I wish that it is more descriptive. I mean, the one that results in Finn being hurt is written off-screen; instead readers are presented with Diego's concern state. I would love to read that fighting scene.
Oh, there's a little twist regarding Finn and Diego's relationship .
Truly beautiful, BEAUTIFUL story. And I actually love how the final ending is sort of written from other's point of view, as the ranger watches the love between Diego and Finn.
Definitely will wait for the sequel.
I didn't bought the 1st edition due to Ms. Martinez's warning about the legal dispute. When this 2nd edition is released by SP, I didn't hesitate to purchase it. Awwww, what a sweet story this is!!!
Diego has this walking sadness around him; even if the strays and others can see his heart of gold, but the fact that his ex cannot, and how he can't seem to sell his book, does something hurtful to his soul. I'm just glad that he finds happiness in Finn.
Reading about Finn's interaction with modern world is adorable. From the magic of answering machine, to him trying to build a 'modern art', to his joy of being in the wilderness, when Diego brings him to a cabin in Canada (Finn cannot stand too much iron in the modern life) ... I just love it -- puts a smile to my face throughout.
The action when they fight the wendigo is great ... though there are times, I wish that it is more descriptive. I mean, the one that results in Finn being hurt is written off-screen; instead readers are presented with Diego's concern state. I would love to read that fighting scene.
Oh, there's a little twist regarding Finn and Diego's relationship .
Truly beautiful, BEAUTIFUL story. And I actually love how the final ending is sort of written from other's point of view, as the ranger watches the love between Diego and Finn.
Definitely will wait for the sequel.
July 26, 2016
Charming, romantic, this story was a delight. :)
The characters, especially Finn, got to me right away. Finn, so confused and indignant in the beginning, and Diego, with his huge heart. Both of them...sweet, funny, sexy...oh, yeah. Their personalities came through in the dialogue, which was very well done. I liked having action mixed with the warm fuzzies. It added some nice tension.
I did think the ending was a little too drawn out after the climax, but it meant I got more time with the MCs, so I won't complain :)
The characters, especially Finn, got to me right away. Finn, so confused and indignant in the beginning, and Diego, with his huge heart. Both of them...sweet, funny, sexy...oh, yeah. Their personalities came through in the dialogue, which was very well done. I liked having action mixed with the warm fuzzies. It added some nice tension.
I did think the ending was a little too drawn out after the climax, but it meant I got more time with the MCs, so I won't complain :)
June 4, 2018
3.5 stars
Rounded down. 3-ish star books are hard to write reviews for. <---terrible grammar. Anyway, I'm struggling also because I made the mistake of putting off writing the review and I can only remember it in broad strokes. I quite liked the protags, Diego and Finn, and thought it clever that pooka Finn was became ill living in the city away from the wilds. Diego whisks him away to a mountain cabin. The whirlwind, life-or-death battles fought in the forests were exciting and the slow reveals of Finn's backstory very interesting.
What kept throwing me out of the story, and I don't remember this being an issue with other Martinez books, was the overuse of words like "thousand/s"....over and over and over. A thousand crackling shards, a thousand directions, thousands of miles, a thousand and three ways, a thousand jagged splinters, a thousand wounds, a thousand falling shards, a thousand exploding stars.....you get the picture. That is so NOT like this author.
So, a very nice story, but nothing truly special. IMO Martinez (who is a favorite author) has written many, far better stories.
Rounded down. 3-ish star books are hard to write reviews for. <---terrible grammar. Anyway, I'm struggling also because I made the mistake of putting off writing the review and I can only remember it in broad strokes. I quite liked the protags, Diego and Finn, and thought it clever that pooka Finn was became ill living in the city away from the wilds. Diego whisks him away to a mountain cabin. The whirlwind, life-or-death battles fought in the forests were exciting and the slow reveals of Finn's backstory very interesting.
What kept throwing me out of the story, and I don't remember this being an issue with other Martinez books, was the overuse of words like "thousand/s"....over and over and over. A thousand crackling shards, a thousand directions, thousands of miles, a thousand and three ways, a thousand jagged splinters, a thousand wounds, a thousand falling shards, a thousand exploding stars.....you get the picture. That is so NOT like this author.
So, a very nice story, but nothing truly special. IMO Martinez (who is a favorite author) has written many, far better stories.
April 10, 2010
This is one of those rare gems that I usually wouldn’t bother buying but thank god I did because this is a rare, truly fabulous story. Although I hardly, if ever, shop at Red Rose Publishing, I was over checking out the newest releases and the blurb attracted me. While I had some reservations and really didn’t appreciate the cover, I still wanted to give this book a try. I even went so far as to read the excerpt (which I never do) and was intrigued enough to get. What a complete gem hiding out in the depths of a publisher I rarely hear mentioned. Wonderful characters, delightful dialogue, and a thrilling storyline all combine to create a thoroughly entertaining and absorbing tale. I couldn’t put this down.
Diego is driving home one night when he comes across a figure perched on the top of the Brooklyn Bridge, naked except for dirty blanket. Unable to stop his addiction to helping lost causes, Diego gives in to the desperation in the man’s eyes and brings him home. Soon Diego discovers his erstwhile guest is actually a magical being, a Fae being called a pooka. The poison and pollution combined with a modern, unfamiliar setting make the ancient creature violently ill to the point Diego decides to head to a friend’s cabin in the wilderness for some peace for both men. While there, however, another ancient magical being is awakened and decides he rather likes Diego as well and thus a difficult, magical fight breaks out.
The premise actually sounds pretty wild but the deft handling and tight writing keep the story fast paced, entertaining, and engrossing. Instead of being corny and trite, the characters are intelligent and likeable. Although there were a few errors in the editing and writing that caught my eye, I was too engrossed in the story to care. There are some world building issues along with some dropped threads, especially relating to Finn’s past and the actual Fae. There was less world building than supplemental information meant to create a deeper alternate reality, which slides slightly on the heavy telling side. However I’ll say again, it didn’t diminish my enjoyment of the story whatsoever. The talented story telling wove a complex and intricate story with splashes of humor and whimsy to lighten the tension while developing a strong relationship and emotional connection.
Diego starts out a little too good to be true with his big heart, failed relationship and willingness to take in any and every lost cause he comes across. However, this is an essential aspect of his character that shows his strength rather than his weakness at first glance. He is firmly routed in reality and stubbornly refuses to believe in magic, while a part of his mind and soul yearn deeply for the existence of magic. Diego is surrounded by magic as he comes to find out and this journey to acceptance against the firm rules of reality as he knows it is part of the story. The dichotomy is one that he struggles with for the entirety of the book and only towards the end is he able to reconcile the parts of his personality with Finn’s help.
Finn offers the most comic relief in the story as a fairy that has been asleep for over seven hundred years and can remember debates about the Ice Age. His fascination and confusion with the modern world comes across fresh and interesting with a delightful dose of outrageous humor and formal diction. His narration and dialogue are the funniest of the story and provide an ease of intensity in even the direst circumstances. Although the story is at times graphic, Finn’s comments and humor keep the scenes from being too dark and off putting, instead injecting a comic element that elevates the entertainment. Finn, however, is not all fun and light as the affects of the poison in the city and even battles with other fairies are not easy and inconsequential. Finn has a depth and history that give him weight as a character and easily make him as interesting as Diego.
Mixed in with the storyline are excerpts from Diego’s “fictional” book, which is really a transcript of conversations with Finn about his magical life and past. These give more insight into Finn and the world of the Fae. These excerpts are a little heavy handed but at the same wonderful and informative. I liked this technique in giving background to the character of Finn and his outlook on relationships, life, magic, the world and his lovers while adding the always present humor and emotion. It would have been nice to been able to have Diego’s reaction as more than an interviewer but the information offered added depth and interest to the story.
The latter portion of the book deals with the other magical being they encounter in the woods and this is well crafted and continues to hold the readers’ interest. Although the resolution is heavily based in magic, as is expected, the slow build up of tension and weaving together of various storylines happens subtly. The actual elements of the resolution are basic and the deft writing combines them in such a way as to create something intriguing and interesting. The ending also leaves room for a sequel, which I hope will be forthcoming at some point.
Overall, I really loved reading this book. Beyond any problems or praise this was a purely entertaining story with great characters and an absorbing tale. The blending of paranormal and modern elements with folklore is deft and skillful leaving a story you almost wish could happen but perhaps much happier to just read about it. If you’re looking for a fabulous paranormal story about fairies that blends lore and modern reality, be sure to pick this up. I haven’t even mentioned the great sex scenes and incredibly satisfying romance. Really, you won’t want to miss this book.
Diego is driving home one night when he comes across a figure perched on the top of the Brooklyn Bridge, naked except for dirty blanket. Unable to stop his addiction to helping lost causes, Diego gives in to the desperation in the man’s eyes and brings him home. Soon Diego discovers his erstwhile guest is actually a magical being, a Fae being called a pooka. The poison and pollution combined with a modern, unfamiliar setting make the ancient creature violently ill to the point Diego decides to head to a friend’s cabin in the wilderness for some peace for both men. While there, however, another ancient magical being is awakened and decides he rather likes Diego as well and thus a difficult, magical fight breaks out.
The premise actually sounds pretty wild but the deft handling and tight writing keep the story fast paced, entertaining, and engrossing. Instead of being corny and trite, the characters are intelligent and likeable. Although there were a few errors in the editing and writing that caught my eye, I was too engrossed in the story to care. There are some world building issues along with some dropped threads, especially relating to Finn’s past and the actual Fae. There was less world building than supplemental information meant to create a deeper alternate reality, which slides slightly on the heavy telling side. However I’ll say again, it didn’t diminish my enjoyment of the story whatsoever. The talented story telling wove a complex and intricate story with splashes of humor and whimsy to lighten the tension while developing a strong relationship and emotional connection.
Diego starts out a little too good to be true with his big heart, failed relationship and willingness to take in any and every lost cause he comes across. However, this is an essential aspect of his character that shows his strength rather than his weakness at first glance. He is firmly routed in reality and stubbornly refuses to believe in magic, while a part of his mind and soul yearn deeply for the existence of magic. Diego is surrounded by magic as he comes to find out and this journey to acceptance against the firm rules of reality as he knows it is part of the story. The dichotomy is one that he struggles with for the entirety of the book and only towards the end is he able to reconcile the parts of his personality with Finn’s help.
Finn offers the most comic relief in the story as a fairy that has been asleep for over seven hundred years and can remember debates about the Ice Age. His fascination and confusion with the modern world comes across fresh and interesting with a delightful dose of outrageous humor and formal diction. His narration and dialogue are the funniest of the story and provide an ease of intensity in even the direst circumstances. Although the story is at times graphic, Finn’s comments and humor keep the scenes from being too dark and off putting, instead injecting a comic element that elevates the entertainment. Finn, however, is not all fun and light as the affects of the poison in the city and even battles with other fairies are not easy and inconsequential. Finn has a depth and history that give him weight as a character and easily make him as interesting as Diego.
Mixed in with the storyline are excerpts from Diego’s “fictional” book, which is really a transcript of conversations with Finn about his magical life and past. These give more insight into Finn and the world of the Fae. These excerpts are a little heavy handed but at the same wonderful and informative. I liked this technique in giving background to the character of Finn and his outlook on relationships, life, magic, the world and his lovers while adding the always present humor and emotion. It would have been nice to been able to have Diego’s reaction as more than an interviewer but the information offered added depth and interest to the story.
The latter portion of the book deals with the other magical being they encounter in the woods and this is well crafted and continues to hold the readers’ interest. Although the resolution is heavily based in magic, as is expected, the slow build up of tension and weaving together of various storylines happens subtly. The actual elements of the resolution are basic and the deft writing combines them in such a way as to create something intriguing and interesting. The ending also leaves room for a sequel, which I hope will be forthcoming at some point.
Overall, I really loved reading this book. Beyond any problems or praise this was a purely entertaining story with great characters and an absorbing tale. The blending of paranormal and modern elements with folklore is deft and skillful leaving a story you almost wish could happen but perhaps much happier to just read about it. If you’re looking for a fabulous paranormal story about fairies that blends lore and modern reality, be sure to pick this up. I haven’t even mentioned the great sex scenes and incredibly satisfying romance. Really, you won’t want to miss this book.
July 24, 2014
A great start to a series. I've had this book for ages (2009 edition) and just never got to it, but I'm so glad I finally loaded it on my Kindle. Diego is a writer who suffers from seizures but spends most of his spare time helping others and looking after the homeless. When we meet him, he has recently broken up with an unsympathetic boyfriend whom I wanted to strangle.
Diego and Finn meet when Diego is the only person to stop to help the man who is about to jump off a bridge. Of course Diego is certain the man is insane with his "out there" comments and lack of knowledge of the modern world. Diego plans to help Finn get the help he needs, but strange things happen and a relationship begins to form. Finn is a Pooka, and can change into many forms at will, surprising Diego who has trouble believing his eyes, but is slowly forced to see that Finn is special.
The story takes off with a trip to Canada for Finn's health and their adventure in fighting an evil being. I loved the action and the slow but steady growth of the relationship. These two were so good together that I can't wait to read more.
Diego and Finn meet when Diego is the only person to stop to help the man who is about to jump off a bridge. Of course Diego is certain the man is insane with his "out there" comments and lack of knowledge of the modern world. Diego plans to help Finn get the help he needs, but strange things happen and a relationship begins to form. Finn is a Pooka, and can change into many forms at will, surprising Diego who has trouble believing his eyes, but is slowly forced to see that Finn is special.
The story takes off with a trip to Canada for Finn's health and their adventure in fighting an evil being. I loved the action and the slow but steady growth of the relationship. These two were so good together that I can't wait to read more.
November 8, 2012
Interesting take on magic, and the fae. I liked the characters, Finn's irreverant sense of humor, and Diego's heart. They worked well together, and I hope to read more about them.
May 22, 2014
Let’s start off by talking about these two men… What a mess they both are!
Diego is a sweet, caring, naive idiot. He is too good to others, to the point he’s been injured and can barely keep himself fed. At some point before this book starts, in an attempt to help a homeless man, he was beaten to the point he now has seizures. He lives in Brooklyn, is a barely self employed writer, and has recently been dumped by his douchebag lover. He’s just managing to get by, buying pretzels for the local homeless folks, writing a bit, and surviving. Barely. He’s a lonely mess.
Into his life falls Finn. Finn is a Pooka, a very special fairy, who has been sleeping for hundreds of years waking to a strange and toxic Ireland. He stows away in a ship and makes it to a stranger and even more toxic New York. He’s sick, starved, desperate, and naked, when Diego finds him crouching on the railing of the Brooklyn bridge. Diego convinces him to get in his car and takes him home. The next challenge is to clean him, hydrate him, clothe him and feed him. Which Diego does, calmly assuming he’s a crazy man, he’ll pass him off to someone in a day or two.
Diego and Finn are the stars of this wonderful story. But there are others… We also have Mitch, the douchebag ex-lover popping in and out, Tia Carmen, Diego’s landlady and source of wonderful food, and Miriam, Diego’s agent and friend. All these folks come together to create a very creative cast!
So a brief look at the plot, without giving too much away. Finn is being poisoned by the iron, toxic crap, and whatnot, that is in the city. Diego sees this and tries to send him off to the country to a cabin Miriam has. Diego does not want to go, he’s a city boy, he can’t see himself in the country. Then there is the excuse of his health, his seizures, etc. He’s also slowly developing feelings for Finn, which WE know Finn is returning, but Diego is trying to be good and not act out of desperation and loneliness. He doesn’t want to take advantage of Finn. We also find out wonderful things about Finn’s abilities, he’s pretty cool! But Diego comes to realize Finn needs to leave and can’t be trusted to care for himself. That’s the set up that gets us to the main action, so to speak, and off the boys go to New Brunswick. But they get in to some serious trouble when Finn
unknowingly wakes up a wendigo. All hell breaks loose and they have to fight for their lives…
Ok. I need to mention one other thing about this story, it is a bit of a spoiler, I’m sorry, but I have to do it. Angel wrote a book about a man who meets a Pooka, who writes a book about a man who meets a Pooka! That is freaking genius, seriously.
This book walks the fine line between cute and cheesy on one side, and dark and intense on the other. There is an epic battle between the Finn and Diego versus the wendigo, which is a bit dark, but the lightness of Finn is the perfect balance. He’s goofy and snarky, irreverent and innocent, even though he’s hundreds of years old. Diego is just beautiful. Painfully beautiful.
Angel has such a light touch to her writing, keeping it all balanced in a creative story. The characters are perfect in their flawed way, the conversations are funny and sweet, the action is exciting, and the sex is lovely. The extra characters add loads to the story, helping when needed and adding drama also when needed. The wendigo is horrible, as all bad things should be, the perfect foil to the lightness of Finn and Diego. There is a bit of angst, and a great ending. The added chapter at the end that appears to have been a Christmas short story is so sweet! A great addition.
I can’t wait for the next Finn and Diego story!
A copy of this book was provided for reviewing. The original review posted at www.lovebytesreviews.com!
Diego is a sweet, caring, naive idiot. He is too good to others, to the point he’s been injured and can barely keep himself fed. At some point before this book starts, in an attempt to help a homeless man, he was beaten to the point he now has seizures. He lives in Brooklyn, is a barely self employed writer, and has recently been dumped by his douchebag lover. He’s just managing to get by, buying pretzels for the local homeless folks, writing a bit, and surviving. Barely. He’s a lonely mess.
Into his life falls Finn. Finn is a Pooka, a very special fairy, who has been sleeping for hundreds of years waking to a strange and toxic Ireland. He stows away in a ship and makes it to a stranger and even more toxic New York. He’s sick, starved, desperate, and naked, when Diego finds him crouching on the railing of the Brooklyn bridge. Diego convinces him to get in his car and takes him home. The next challenge is to clean him, hydrate him, clothe him and feed him. Which Diego does, calmly assuming he’s a crazy man, he’ll pass him off to someone in a day or two.
Diego and Finn are the stars of this wonderful story. But there are others… We also have Mitch, the douchebag ex-lover popping in and out, Tia Carmen, Diego’s landlady and source of wonderful food, and Miriam, Diego’s agent and friend. All these folks come together to create a very creative cast!
So a brief look at the plot, without giving too much away. Finn is being poisoned by the iron, toxic crap, and whatnot, that is in the city. Diego sees this and tries to send him off to the country to a cabin Miriam has. Diego does not want to go, he’s a city boy, he can’t see himself in the country. Then there is the excuse of his health, his seizures, etc. He’s also slowly developing feelings for Finn, which WE know Finn is returning, but Diego is trying to be good and not act out of desperation and loneliness. He doesn’t want to take advantage of Finn. We also find out wonderful things about Finn’s abilities, he’s pretty cool! But Diego comes to realize Finn needs to leave and can’t be trusted to care for himself. That’s the set up that gets us to the main action, so to speak, and off the boys go to New Brunswick. But they get in to some serious trouble when Finn
unknowingly wakes up a wendigo. All hell breaks loose and they have to fight for their lives…
Ok. I need to mention one other thing about this story, it is a bit of a spoiler, I’m sorry, but I have to do it. Angel wrote a book about a man who meets a Pooka, who writes a book about a man who meets a Pooka! That is freaking genius, seriously.
This book walks the fine line between cute and cheesy on one side, and dark and intense on the other. There is an epic battle between the Finn and Diego versus the wendigo, which is a bit dark, but the lightness of Finn is the perfect balance. He’s goofy and snarky, irreverent and innocent, even though he’s hundreds of years old. Diego is just beautiful. Painfully beautiful.
Angel has such a light touch to her writing, keeping it all balanced in a creative story. The characters are perfect in their flawed way, the conversations are funny and sweet, the action is exciting, and the sex is lovely. The extra characters add loads to the story, helping when needed and adding drama also when needed. The wendigo is horrible, as all bad things should be, the perfect foil to the lightness of Finn and Diego. There is a bit of angst, and a great ending. The added chapter at the end that appears to have been a Christmas short story is so sweet! A great addition.
I can’t wait for the next Finn and Diego story!
A copy of this book was provided for reviewing. The original review posted at www.lovebytesreviews.com!
March 2, 2011
Honestly, I didn't have high hopes I'd like this book because of the fact that I picked it up and put it down so long ago but I was pleasantly surprised with how much I did like it overall. I suppose I just wasn't in the right mood the last time I tried reading it and that is why my opinion is completely different now.
This was quite an interesting story. Diego is a writer and when he meets Finn and takes him to Canada, he starts to write more and more about what Finn is and how Finn has lived his life. Diego is kind of a sad character. It broke my heart every time he had a seizure. Finn is a unique character. He talks like he's still in an old world and doesn't understand any of the technologies nowadays but he's sweet and really cares about Diego and wants to protect him because they are meant to be together forever . I found it funny whenever Diego would say something about a TV or computer and Finn would say, "Oh, the picture box?" Lol. It cracked me up.
I really liked how Finn was understanding of Diego's hesitance to become lovers. He accepted Diego's decision and didn't push it. I must say when the wendigo showed up, I was hooked on the story. It was fascinating to see how Finn and Diego tried to fight the wendigo so that he couldn't kill anyone and I really liked seeing something positive come out of Diego's seizures.
All in all, this was a great book. I'm looking forward to reading more of Diego and Finn. Recommended.
This was quite an interesting story. Diego is a writer and when he meets Finn and takes him to Canada, he starts to write more and more about what Finn is and how Finn has lived his life. Diego is kind of a sad character. It broke my heart every time he had a seizure. Finn is a unique character. He talks like he's still in an old world and doesn't understand any of the technologies nowadays but he's sweet and really cares about Diego and wants to protect him because they are meant to be together forever . I found it funny whenever Diego would say something about a TV or computer and Finn would say, "Oh, the picture box?" Lol. It cracked me up.
I really liked how Finn was understanding of Diego's hesitance to become lovers. He accepted Diego's decision and didn't push it. I must say when the wendigo showed up, I was hooked on the story. It was fascinating to see how Finn and Diego tried to fight the wendigo so that he couldn't kill anyone and I really liked seeing something positive come out of Diego's seizures.
All in all, this was a great book. I'm looking forward to reading more of Diego and Finn. Recommended.
April 22, 2012
This is the first book I have read by this author and I now know that I will probably read everything she has written or will write in the future. Her writing style is poetic but not over the top and her characters are rich and beautifully drawn.
Finn was a delight to get to know. His lack of knowledge of things in the current age was endearing. I loved the way he learned his way around things, but mostly it was the way he loved Diego that got to me. He gave his heart fully and sweetly.
Diego was a truly sweet character and I loved him from moment one. His way of giving to those around him made me go 'awww' many times.
I am glad there are other books in this series because I didn't want their story to end.
Finn was a delight to get to know. His lack of knowledge of things in the current age was endearing. I loved the way he learned his way around things, but mostly it was the way he loved Diego that got to me. He gave his heart fully and sweetly.
Diego was a truly sweet character and I loved him from moment one. His way of giving to those around him made me go 'awww' many times.
I am glad there are other books in this series because I didn't want their story to end.
May 6, 2016
When Diego spots the naked man on the bridge, he thinks he is preparing to jump. After getting him home and safe, Diego realises that Finn is stuck in another century, just another psychiatric oddity he needs to hand over to social services. But soon, Diego realises that Finn is fae, not crazy, and he soon learns that there are also much darker things out there...
One of the things I love the most about Angel Martinez's work (I am working my way through her back catalogue) is the way her characters fit within their cultures. Finn is confused by the most everyday of things, but he still has a deep wisdom. There is something inhuman about the way he sees the world. Most authors, when writing a fae character, would get the confusion right, or some other aspects, but, ultimately, it would be just a human dressed up as a fae. With Angel Martinez, I believe Finn is fae. It's there in everything about him, every small action and word he speaks. It was one of the things I admired most about Gravitational Attraction, the richly imagined, populated cultures, and it's present again in Finn.
Not to say Diego is any less interesting for being human. He's sweet and incredibly naive, helping the people around him without any regard for his own safety. Every morning, he buys pretzels and distributes them to the homeless around his area. It takes a really special person to be like him. His biggest flaw is his huge heart, I think. It's got him into trouble before, and now he has seizures because of a violent attack that put him in hospital. But he still helps people! I love him! :) <3
AND THEY ARE SUCH A CUTE COUPLE!!
The culture building, on a similar note, is once again flawless (which is perhaps why the characters fit so well within it). :) I loved how existing mythology about the fae was used. I love Irish mythology anyway, so perhaps I'm biased. But it all felt very real, and I feel as though we were allowed but a tiny little peek... I know I was left wanting more. (Not that this is a bad thing - it's a good thing!) I want to read about the fae court! D:
Now I'm done rhapsodising about the characterisation and culture building...
The plot is great. There's magic, danger and romance - a potent and heady formula. I loved that the sex in the book was not its main point, even though it's marketed as an m/m erotica. Obviously, the sex is there (and hot and steamy it is too - Finn's tongue, oh my!), but it feels as though it's there alongside the plot, rather than a shaky frame to hang a weak plot on.
Also, there's humour. This is always important in a book, I think, since books without humour tend to either be unrelentingly depressing or taking themselves way too seriously. Much of the humour stems from Finn being unable to comprehend everyday objects/concepts, but this never got trying or repetitive (at least, for me). :)
I wish we could see more of the fae, and more of Finn's kind, but the veil is closed, so I'm unsure if that'll happen. Thankfully, though, there's a sequel! I'm glad there's a sequel because I love Diego and Finn as a couple, almost as much as I love the idea of soulmates and past lives and... *sighs wistfully*
I'd recommend this to anyone looking for a sexy read with a decent plot and a lot of cuteness and humour thrown in! :)
One of the things I love the most about Angel Martinez's work (I am working my way through her back catalogue) is the way her characters fit within their cultures. Finn is confused by the most everyday of things, but he still has a deep wisdom. There is something inhuman about the way he sees the world. Most authors, when writing a fae character, would get the confusion right, or some other aspects, but, ultimately, it would be just a human dressed up as a fae. With Angel Martinez, I believe Finn is fae. It's there in everything about him, every small action and word he speaks. It was one of the things I admired most about Gravitational Attraction, the richly imagined, populated cultures, and it's present again in Finn.
Not to say Diego is any less interesting for being human. He's sweet and incredibly naive, helping the people around him without any regard for his own safety. Every morning, he buys pretzels and distributes them to the homeless around his area. It takes a really special person to be like him. His biggest flaw is his huge heart, I think. It's got him into trouble before, and now he has seizures because of a violent attack that put him in hospital. But he still helps people! I love him! :) <3
AND THEY ARE SUCH A CUTE COUPLE!!
The culture building, on a similar note, is once again flawless (which is perhaps why the characters fit so well within it). :) I loved how existing mythology about the fae was used. I love Irish mythology anyway, so perhaps I'm biased. But it all felt very real, and I feel as though we were allowed but a tiny little peek... I know I was left wanting more. (Not that this is a bad thing - it's a good thing!) I want to read about the fae court! D:
Now I'm done rhapsodising about the characterisation and culture building...
The plot is great. There's magic, danger and romance - a potent and heady formula. I loved that the sex in the book was not its main point, even though it's marketed as an m/m erotica. Obviously, the sex is there (and hot and steamy it is too - Finn's tongue, oh my!), but it feels as though it's there alongside the plot, rather than a shaky frame to hang a weak plot on.
Also, there's humour. This is always important in a book, I think, since books without humour tend to either be unrelentingly depressing or taking themselves way too seriously. Much of the humour stems from Finn being unable to comprehend everyday objects/concepts, but this never got trying or repetitive (at least, for me). :)
I wish we could see more of the fae, and more of Finn's kind, but the veil is closed, so I'm unsure if that'll happen. Thankfully, though, there's a sequel! I'm glad there's a sequel because I love Diego and Finn as a couple, almost as much as I love the idea of soulmates and past lives and... *sighs wistfully*
I'd recommend this to anyone looking for a sexy read with a decent plot and a lot of cuteness and humour thrown in! :)
June 4, 2014
I must thank my partner for the LGBT Fantasy June Pick It For Me challenge, Elizabeth. She hit all my happy buttons with this book and Angel Martinez--who's been on my radar for quite some time--has definitely impressed me with this one.
Let me say this first, Finn is that rarity in a unacceptably whitewashed M/M romance genre: it is an interracial romance featuring a lead gay male PoC. Most of the reviewers (who obviously loved the book as much as I did) failed to mention this fact, but I'm not into erasure. Interracial relationships are a fact of life for many real life GLBTQ; we should be celebrating them in fiction as well.
It has been quite some time a fantasy novel has reminded my exactly WHY I fell in love with this genre in the first place. That sense of the ordinary made extraordinary, the wish for magick in a mundane world. Finn is that story that made me hope pookas are still out there, along with their other fae kin. Yes, it's an unabashed sweet/humorous/sexy love story, but its strength lies in that there's a solid tale FIRST with characters I truly care about and embrace. Diego, a gay latino man, is the kind of person who cares about society's castoffs (seeing that he's one himself in the eyes of those who denigrate his race and who he loves). He's that struggling, artistic spirit trapped in a world without magic. His former lover has left him (good riddance I say). Worse, he suffers from seizures due to a random act of kindness on his part that ended horrifically. When he rescues a tattered and naked man apparently about to leap from the Brooklyn Bridge, Diego has little idea just who (or what) his foundling truly is.
And Finn, lovely pooka Finn. Childlike in some ways, though certainly not naive in the ways of man; mischievous in others, and always brave. Always true to form (whichever one he chooses to take). Note to self: NEVER give a pooka coffee. Caffeine and pookas do not mix, lol. Yes, he's a mythological being yet he was fully actualized, complex. I felt for him--that sense of claustrophia that many big cities engender. The loss of magic in the most mundane things. The wildness and wonder of nature. That need for connection which transcends man-made notions of age, race, gender and the rest. In Diego, Finn sees a bright spirit hiding within a broken man.
Finn also scores hugely for a realistic multiethnic New York (Pro-tip: whitewashing cosmopolitan, racially diverse cities like New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco and others is sufficient grounds to have a book shredded within an inch of its life). Just as good, no genderfail. I loved Tia Carmen (who manages to not become the stereotyped "Magical PoC" in a sea of whitewashed faces) and Miriam (Diego's awesome agent who really cares for Diego far beyond his just being a client), who are fully actualized characters in their own right.
I am eagerly awaiting the next book in this series. This will definitely be one of my favourite re-reads.
Let me say this first, Finn is that rarity in a unacceptably whitewashed M/M romance genre: it is an interracial romance featuring a lead gay male PoC. Most of the reviewers (who obviously loved the book as much as I did) failed to mention this fact, but I'm not into erasure. Interracial relationships are a fact of life for many real life GLBTQ; we should be celebrating them in fiction as well.
It has been quite some time a fantasy novel has reminded my exactly WHY I fell in love with this genre in the first place. That sense of the ordinary made extraordinary, the wish for magick in a mundane world. Finn is that story that made me hope pookas are still out there, along with their other fae kin. Yes, it's an unabashed sweet/humorous/sexy love story, but its strength lies in that there's a solid tale FIRST with characters I truly care about and embrace. Diego, a gay latino man, is the kind of person who cares about society's castoffs (seeing that he's one himself in the eyes of those who denigrate his race and who he loves). He's that struggling, artistic spirit trapped in a world without magic. His former lover has left him (good riddance I say). Worse, he suffers from seizures due to a random act of kindness on his part that ended horrifically. When he rescues a tattered and naked man apparently about to leap from the Brooklyn Bridge, Diego has little idea just who (or what) his foundling truly is.
And Finn, lovely pooka Finn. Childlike in some ways, though certainly not naive in the ways of man; mischievous in others, and always brave. Always true to form (whichever one he chooses to take). Note to self: NEVER give a pooka coffee. Caffeine and pookas do not mix, lol. Yes, he's a mythological being yet he was fully actualized, complex. I felt for him--that sense of claustrophia that many big cities engender. The loss of magic in the most mundane things. The wildness and wonder of nature. That need for connection which transcends man-made notions of age, race, gender and the rest. In Diego, Finn sees a bright spirit hiding within a broken man.
Finn also scores hugely for a realistic multiethnic New York (Pro-tip: whitewashing cosmopolitan, racially diverse cities like New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco and others is sufficient grounds to have a book shredded within an inch of its life). Just as good, no genderfail. I loved Tia Carmen (who manages to not become the stereotyped "Magical PoC" in a sea of whitewashed faces) and Miriam (Diego's awesome agent who really cares for Diego far beyond his just being a client), who are fully actualized characters in their own right.
I am eagerly awaiting the next book in this series. This will definitely be one of my favourite re-reads.
January 19, 2013
4 Hearts
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
So for those who are wondering if it is worth buying this version of Finn if you already have the first version, I say yes because there are just enough changes that made it worth my while to read and the cover has so much more chest acreage (did I say that out loud?). Diego rescues a man who is naked except for a blanket, Diego has a habit to trying to rescue everyone and it has got him in trouble in the past, when the man says he is a Pooka Diego doesn’t know what to think. Finn is one of the old country, a Fae, a Pooka when he awakens in the modern world he isn’t sure how he will survive but with Diego’s assistance he begins to find a way.
This is so much better the second time round (err the first one was just as good, honest) Diego is a pure sweetheart who will help anyone, when he sees Diego at the side of the bridge he can’t help but stop to help him. Finn is devastated with how the world is now and he really needs help with the arrival of Diego Finn sees into his soul and knows the human won’t hurt him. These two together make a great team and there is adventure to be had as we keep them company.
Ah what can I say about this story except brilliant, absolutely brilliant, this is a story that brings back the old type Fae, sea water makes Finn ill and Iron could kill him, taking Finn to Canada to his friends cabin is the only solution Diego can come up with to help Finn stay healthy but a discovery there leads them both to danger. I loved the way the author wove this tale because the danger came out of nowhere, there was no hint that a twist was coming and it was a twist that really blew me away and it wasn’t the only twist either.
The relationship between Finn and Diego is slow going but there is a connection between them but when Diego reaches that point with Finn it is (sorry had to re-read those passages just to be sure ;-)) quite erotic and Finn says some of the most romantic things *sigh*, I did like the fact that Diego was a bit wary of a new relationship and that he did take it slow. Another thing I really liked was the way that Angel Martinez fitted in parts of Finn’s interview in, bringing the reality of Finn’s utter Irish charm to life and showing him as a complete character.
There were some parts that were well played out and although we don’t get graphic detail of the fight I was still satisfied (and I am blood thirsty) because of how the author described it from Diego’s POV so we had all his worry and fear and doubt and then we have the descriptions of what he found the next morning. Very well written.
I have to recommend this to those who like fantasy, a great story, hot sex, a loving relationship, a couple of twists, some gruesome danger, some really gruesome descriptions and a happy ever after.
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
So for those who are wondering if it is worth buying this version of Finn if you already have the first version, I say yes because there are just enough changes that made it worth my while to read and the cover has so much more chest acreage (did I say that out loud?). Diego rescues a man who is naked except for a blanket, Diego has a habit to trying to rescue everyone and it has got him in trouble in the past, when the man says he is a Pooka Diego doesn’t know what to think. Finn is one of the old country, a Fae, a Pooka when he awakens in the modern world he isn’t sure how he will survive but with Diego’s assistance he begins to find a way.
This is so much better the second time round (err the first one was just as good, honest) Diego is a pure sweetheart who will help anyone, when he sees Diego at the side of the bridge he can’t help but stop to help him. Finn is devastated with how the world is now and he really needs help with the arrival of Diego Finn sees into his soul and knows the human won’t hurt him. These two together make a great team and there is adventure to be had as we keep them company.
Ah what can I say about this story except brilliant, absolutely brilliant, this is a story that brings back the old type Fae, sea water makes Finn ill and Iron could kill him, taking Finn to Canada to his friends cabin is the only solution Diego can come up with to help Finn stay healthy but a discovery there leads them both to danger. I loved the way the author wove this tale because the danger came out of nowhere, there was no hint that a twist was coming and it was a twist that really blew me away and it wasn’t the only twist either.
The relationship between Finn and Diego is slow going but there is a connection between them but when Diego reaches that point with Finn it is (sorry had to re-read those passages just to be sure ;-)) quite erotic and Finn says some of the most romantic things *sigh*, I did like the fact that Diego was a bit wary of a new relationship and that he did take it slow. Another thing I really liked was the way that Angel Martinez fitted in parts of Finn’s interview in, bringing the reality of Finn’s utter Irish charm to life and showing him as a complete character.
There were some parts that were well played out and although we don’t get graphic detail of the fight I was still satisfied (and I am blood thirsty) because of how the author described it from Diego’s POV so we had all his worry and fear and doubt and then we have the descriptions of what he found the next morning. Very well written.
I have to recommend this to those who like fantasy, a great story, hot sex, a loving relationship, a couple of twists, some gruesome danger, some really gruesome descriptions and a happy ever after.
October 8, 2013
Oh how I love Finn!
Diego is a stray rescuer, he just can't help him. He not only helps stray animals, but he feeds the homeless on the streets and makes friends with them. He's just a giver, even if his life is crap. He can't write anymore, writers block?, his boyfriend broke up with him, and he has seizures. So when he's driving down the road he sees a naked man on the bridge, he doesn't even think twice to help. It's his nature to want to help. He knows something is wrong with the man, but he immediately think he needs a shrink.
Finn is lost and poisoned. He's poisoned by the air and water that in the city. It's not clean. He's sick enough that he can't shift to leave the city. So he follows the man who saved him off the bridge home. Diego, takes him to the hospital just to get him checked out, but Finn freaks. Little by little Diego knows he's the man to take care of Finn and not turn him in.
I loved watching Finn adjust to the modern world. Trying to use the phone, the answering machine, the TV, sniffing glue ;), etc. It was hilarious.
When the wendigo comes though I had a hard time not picturing the beast from Charmed. I loved watching that battle though.
Who knew Tia Carmen would be so full of knowledge ;) I really loved her character.
Overall, great story!
Diego is a stray rescuer, he just can't help him. He not only helps stray animals, but he feeds the homeless on the streets and makes friends with them. He's just a giver, even if his life is crap. He can't write anymore, writers block?, his boyfriend broke up with him, and he has seizures. So when he's driving down the road he sees a naked man on the bridge, he doesn't even think twice to help. It's his nature to want to help. He knows something is wrong with the man, but he immediately think he needs a shrink.
Finn is lost and poisoned. He's poisoned by the air and water that in the city. It's not clean. He's sick enough that he can't shift to leave the city. So he follows the man who saved him off the bridge home. Diego, takes him to the hospital just to get him checked out, but Finn freaks. Little by little Diego knows he's the man to take care of Finn and not turn him in.
I loved watching Finn adjust to the modern world. Trying to use the phone, the answering machine, the TV, sniffing glue ;), etc. It was hilarious.
When the wendigo comes though I had a hard time not picturing the beast from Charmed. I loved watching that battle though.
Who knew Tia Carmen would be so full of knowledge ;) I really loved her character.
Overall, great story!
June 17, 2014
Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
For my full review, visit http://wp.me/p220KL-2xb
From my review: "It didn't take me long to fall under the magical spell that Angel Martinez creates for Finn, the first in her Endangered Fae series. With her first setting the melting pot that is Brooklyn, Martinez starts to spin a yarn that will incorporate a number of different mythologies into a romance with supernatural overtones. There is the Irish púca (also pooka, phouka), the Wendigo from the Algonquian Nation, and Taliesin, a wizard and bard who acquired the gift of prophecy, found in Welsh mythology. Layered onto such a fantastical foundation, Martinez brings in a main Hispanic character steeped in his own culture and language until this story just simmers with a richness of traditions, folklore, and diversity…"
For all my reviews, author interviews and guest blogs, book contests, visit http://ScatteredThoughtsandRogueWords...
July 24, 2009
Once and a while you pick up a book that stretches your imagination. Finn is that book. First, and not to be overlooked, this is a Male / Male romance written by a woman for women. It holds everything a romance novel should, souls wanting the ultimate mate to connect with, and a story to be told in the process of finding the prefect partner in life. Set in a world of shifters and wendigos, Finn is a perfect blend of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Romance. Ms. Martinez weaves a universe with her pen, blends believable worlds and rich characters you can’t help but fall in love with. This book has opened up my horizons of others like it to follow.
March 16, 2012
I enjoyed it, but not as much as other stories by her. I set it down at one point about 2/3 of the way through, then a few hours later thought I'd finished it but couldn't remember how it ended. Maybe I was just distracted, but usually when a story really grabs me I'll remember when I haven't yet finished it and be eager to do so. I was surprised, when I turned on my reader, to discover I'd left it in the middle of a pretty dramatic scene. So I finished it, but still found it not terribly memorable an hour or two later.
June 19, 2018
A pooka, a wendigo, and Diego walked into the woods one day...
This was charming and the unusual fantastical beings certainly gave it a different flavor than the average fantasy romance read. The lore was well done, but I guess that I'm just not that into romance right now so my rating is quite possibly not typical. I enjoy Martinez's writing and some of the same elements are in this revamped version of "Finn": violence, imprisonment, isolation; but it's softer here--perhaps an echo of an earlier voice. Definitely could do worse.
This was charming and the unusual fantastical beings certainly gave it a different flavor than the average fantasy romance read. The lore was well done, but I guess that I'm just not that into romance right now so my rating is quite possibly not typical. I enjoy Martinez's writing and some of the same elements are in this revamped version of "Finn": violence, imprisonment, isolation; but it's softer here--perhaps an echo of an earlier voice. Definitely could do worse.
February 3, 2011
I really enjoy this story of Finn and Diego. What a great couple who meet and start to develop a very unique relationship given Finn's history as a fairy. Maybe I'm late to the game but this type of character was new to me and this tale made me a fan. I can't wait to read Diego!
March 30, 2015
I actually finished this last night having read the whole thing in under 4 hours. Yes, it was so good I couldn't put it down until I'd devoured every last part of it.
Once again I am in awe. At the lyrical feeling of the language used. At the seemless use of myths and tales, of which I am only vaguely aware, intricately weaved into a mesmorising story.
Angel Martinez is fast becoming one of favourites.
Once again I am in awe. At the lyrical feeling of the language used. At the seemless use of myths and tales, of which I am only vaguely aware, intricately weaved into a mesmorising story.
Angel Martinez is fast becoming one of favourites.
September 27, 2021
3.5 stars
Very intriguing, as if never read about a Pooka before.
I loved Finn (the shapeshifting thing is really cute) but I lacked some connection with Diego. He was closed off and his feelings didn't resonate with me.
I wanted more details about Finn and Diego's
Very intriguing, as if never read about a Pooka before.
I loved Finn (the shapeshifting thing is really cute) but I lacked some connection with Diego. He was closed off and his feelings didn't resonate with me.
I wanted more details about Finn and Diego's
October 8, 2017
Intriguing set up, and Finn's incomprehension with modern US ways is mildly amusing, though his manner of speech lurches disoncertingly from mock Old Irish to street talk. But the book then veers off into OTT magical battles that don't really develop either MC and aren't (I'm afraid) particularly interesting of themselves.
August 10, 2014
This is my first read by this author and it won't be my last. Excellent writing, storytelling and characters. I love Finn! Must read more!
May 19, 2025
This book hooked me in right from the start. It has such a cool concept and I loved seeing how Finn viewed this world and how he had to learn what everything was (as a newly awakened fae from a coma of sorts). It did lose me a little bit in the middle but got me back at the end and overall I really enjoyed it and it was a solid 4-star book.
Diego and Finn are totally meant for each other and I loved seeing their relationship progress (and how slow Diego was with it, he didn’t rush into it or start talking about having sex with Finn immediately after meeting which is always nice)!
There was some action in the second half that was super fun to read. I enjoyed the HFN. There are more books about this couple, not sure if I’ll read them but it absolutely ends well with no cliffhanger.
Diego and Finn are totally meant for each other and I loved seeing their relationship progress (and how slow Diego was with it, he didn’t rush into it or start talking about having sex with Finn immediately after meeting which is always nice)!
There was some action in the second half that was super fun to read. I enjoyed the HFN. There are more books about this couple, not sure if I’ll read them but it absolutely ends well with no cliffhanger.
December 13, 2022
What an absolutely wild and interesting take on the fae. There were bits where reality intruded for me, but overall I enjoyed this one.
July 9, 2018
A re-release by Angel Martinez, Finn is the first in a longer series entitled Endangered Fae. Having not read the original, I have no comment on whether this re-release is a better version of that one, but I can say the characters presented in this first installment were captivating and endearing. While it seemed to take a while for the chemistry between Finn and Diego to really establish itself and evolve, the dynamic between the two definitely gave a sense of intimacy and realism to an otherworldly story.
Finn is a pooka, Irish for spirit or ghost, who often wreaks havoc and is not necessarily known for doing good deeds. When Diego discovers him on the bridge, about to jump, he thinks the poor creature has escaped the mental ward of a hospital but soon comes to realize there is indeed something magical about this beautiful man who can shapeshift into just about anything he sets his mind to being. Finn has just awakened after being trapped for over a thousand years, and the city, with its steel structures, acts like a poison to his system. Diego is able to take him to a friend’s cabin in the remote woods well outside the city, where Finn can fully recover and once more commune with his beloved earth. However it’s there, in the forest, that Finn unknowingly awakens something dark and evil, something that wants only one thing—Diego. Now the two of them must do battle against something neither could defeat on their own, and hope that they prevail or risk Diego losing himself body and soul.
As paranormal stories go, I hold to the truth that no one can write them quite like Angel Martinez. While her stories are often marked by clever dialogue and humor, this novel contains a bit of both while also having a darker, more serious bent. For instance, the encounter with the malevolent spirit at the cabin is not reading for the faint of heart as it is violent in nature and rather graphic and yet so well done as to chill one to their very core. But, it’s the lead-up to this climax that really sets this story apart.
Poor Diego is so wounded after being thrown aside by a controlling and judgmental ex-boyfriend. His own family struggles with his being gay and with his chosen profession of fantasy writer, which has yet to really take off and can hardly be labeled successful. His heart is way too big for his body, and he wears it on his sleeve—hence, his lack of fear or reason for not only saving Finn from jumping off the bridge but actually going a step further and taking him home. From there it is a slow build to their relationship, beginning with Diego trusting and believing that Finn is what he says he is, and on Finn’s side, that this human will not ensnare him or harm him.
The story is solid plot-wise and never lagging when it comes to action or pacing. As always, Martinez proves what an excellent storyteller she is by weaving just enough fantasy together with a dash of humor to make the novel entertaining and exciting. There is such a tenderness about Diego that one is immediately drawn to him and invested in his well-being. The romance angle, while more subdued, is still quite lovely and intense as these two learn to open themselves up fully to the idea of loving one another. For Finn this is huge due to the fact that pookas rarely promise their love and fidelity to just one person, and we soon discover that there is more to Diego then meets the eye.
I enjoyed Finn a great deal, and I’m eager to read more about Diego and Finn’s future. I certainly will be pursuing the other novels in this series.
Reviewed by Sammy for The Novel Approach
Finn is a pooka, Irish for spirit or ghost, who often wreaks havoc and is not necessarily known for doing good deeds. When Diego discovers him on the bridge, about to jump, he thinks the poor creature has escaped the mental ward of a hospital but soon comes to realize there is indeed something magical about this beautiful man who can shapeshift into just about anything he sets his mind to being. Finn has just awakened after being trapped for over a thousand years, and the city, with its steel structures, acts like a poison to his system. Diego is able to take him to a friend’s cabin in the remote woods well outside the city, where Finn can fully recover and once more commune with his beloved earth. However it’s there, in the forest, that Finn unknowingly awakens something dark and evil, something that wants only one thing—Diego. Now the two of them must do battle against something neither could defeat on their own, and hope that they prevail or risk Diego losing himself body and soul.
As paranormal stories go, I hold to the truth that no one can write them quite like Angel Martinez. While her stories are often marked by clever dialogue and humor, this novel contains a bit of both while also having a darker, more serious bent. For instance, the encounter with the malevolent spirit at the cabin is not reading for the faint of heart as it is violent in nature and rather graphic and yet so well done as to chill one to their very core. But, it’s the lead-up to this climax that really sets this story apart.
Poor Diego is so wounded after being thrown aside by a controlling and judgmental ex-boyfriend. His own family struggles with his being gay and with his chosen profession of fantasy writer, which has yet to really take off and can hardly be labeled successful. His heart is way too big for his body, and he wears it on his sleeve—hence, his lack of fear or reason for not only saving Finn from jumping off the bridge but actually going a step further and taking him home. From there it is a slow build to their relationship, beginning with Diego trusting and believing that Finn is what he says he is, and on Finn’s side, that this human will not ensnare him or harm him.
The story is solid plot-wise and never lagging when it comes to action or pacing. As always, Martinez proves what an excellent storyteller she is by weaving just enough fantasy together with a dash of humor to make the novel entertaining and exciting. There is such a tenderness about Diego that one is immediately drawn to him and invested in his well-being. The romance angle, while more subdued, is still quite lovely and intense as these two learn to open themselves up fully to the idea of loving one another. For Finn this is huge due to the fact that pookas rarely promise their love and fidelity to just one person, and we soon discover that there is more to Diego then meets the eye.
I enjoyed Finn a great deal, and I’m eager to read more about Diego and Finn’s future. I certainly will be pursuing the other novels in this series.
Reviewed by Sammy for The Novel Approach
October 10, 2011
The vehicle of using an alien creature to comment on modern problems and foibles isn’t a new one. Swift used it in Gulliver’s Travels, which has since degenerated into a children story and no one probably even realizes it was once a social commentary. From the moment Finn awakens in an oil-slick with other dead and dying water creatures, to his problems with twentieth-first century food, air, water, inventions, and social conventions, some great points are made in favor of recycling and other attempts to clean up the planet without ever saying those words. Diego and Finn’s attraction to each other is down-played and doesn’t occur until well into the story, and through it all Diego fights his growing affection for the faerie creature because he doesn’t want Finn to be merely a rebound-from-Mitch romance. That there is some mystical link between the two he never suspects.
Diego is portrayed as someone who cares…about anyone or anything in distress, sometimes to the detriment of his own well-being. He’s a dreamer, too, why else would he be a writer? Finn, though out of his element through much of the story, is more level-headed and serious, even when befuddled and mystified by contemporary behavior. He’s a delightful character. The scene in the art music where he explains a painting to a child whose father has failed miserably to do so, while discovering the wonders of it himself, is a delight.
In my opinion, this story is more a vehicle about seeing the world through eyes filled with wonder and joy than about one man loving another. There’s that, too, but it comes later, slowly, and it’s depicted with a gentleness that also embues it with a sense of magic.
I like Finn! And I’m looking forward to more adventures of the handsome pooka and his human.
Diego is portrayed as someone who cares…about anyone or anything in distress, sometimes to the detriment of his own well-being. He’s a dreamer, too, why else would he be a writer? Finn, though out of his element through much of the story, is more level-headed and serious, even when befuddled and mystified by contemporary behavior. He’s a delightful character. The scene in the art music where he explains a painting to a child whose father has failed miserably to do so, while discovering the wonders of it himself, is a delight.
In my opinion, this story is more a vehicle about seeing the world through eyes filled with wonder and joy than about one man loving another. There’s that, too, but it comes later, slowly, and it’s depicted with a gentleness that also embues it with a sense of magic.
I like Finn! And I’m looking forward to more adventures of the handsome pooka and his human.
June 23, 2011
Ok, so I'm a little late in getting up to date here, but I was living in "Interesting Times" (as some of our Asian friends might comment).
This was my introduction to this genre, and I'm in utter amazement of the author's deft (but oh so gentle!) guidance through this tender and vulnerable period of passage, as it were. (I can neither confirm nor deny anything about any physiological responses I may or may not have experienced during this initiation. Political reasons. You understand.)
I was disappointed by my inability to access other works by the author at the time (due to lingering publishing issues, I believe), but am encouraged by the prospect that such stormy times are behind us now.
So...like I said, I'm not a connoisseur of the boy-meets-boy love stories, but I believe good reads are where you find them. Satisfactions: I recall an earthy, natural feel to the more memorable scenes, even in the urban settings; also found a
certain satisfaction in the cleverness of the plot and development; Finn was definitely fun! Wants: I wanted to know more about the villain(s) (since I often seem to identify with them for some reason); not looking to get in bed with them though (so to speak...), so maybe just enough for a sequel?
And the fact that I knew the author in no way influenced this book's rating or review.
(Do I get my $5 now?)
This was my introduction to this genre, and I'm in utter amazement of the author's deft (but oh so gentle!) guidance through this tender and vulnerable period of passage, as it were. (I can neither confirm nor deny anything about any physiological responses I may or may not have experienced during this initiation. Political reasons. You understand.)
I was disappointed by my inability to access other works by the author at the time (due to lingering publishing issues, I believe), but am encouraged by the prospect that such stormy times are behind us now.
So...like I said, I'm not a connoisseur of the boy-meets-boy love stories, but I believe good reads are where you find them. Satisfactions: I recall an earthy, natural feel to the more memorable scenes, even in the urban settings; also found a
certain satisfaction in the cleverness of the plot and development; Finn was definitely fun! Wants: I wanted to know more about the villain(s) (since I often seem to identify with them for some reason); not looking to get in bed with them though (so to speak...), so maybe just enough for a sequel?
And the fact that I knew the author in no way influenced this book's rating or review.
(Do I get my $5 now?)
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